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Portland Fire 2026: Latest News and Updates
The Portland Fire extend winning streak to three with a comeback win over Connecticut Sun. Get key stats, injury updates, and game info for Friday vs Atlanta Dream.
Sports
Portland Fire Extends Winning Streak to Three with Comeback Victory
The Portland Fire defeated the Connecticut Sun 71-61 on Wednesday night, erasing a fourth-quarter deficit to extend their winning streak to three games. The victory improves the expansion Fire to 5-3 on the season, positioning them firmly in the playoff conversation as they prepare to host the Atlanta Dream on Friday.
The comeback was fueled by a defensive adjustment that held Connecticut to just 12 points in the final period. Portland outscored the Sun 22-12 in the fourth quarter, turning a tight contest into a comfortable win.
The Fire's 71-61 win marks their third consecutive victory, the longest streak for an expansion team this season.
Portland now sits at 5-3, a strong start for a first-year franchise. The team's resilience in close games has been a hallmark of their early success.
Carle Leite and Bridget Carleton Lead Scoring in Crucial Win
Carle Leite led all scorers with 20 points, continuing her impressive debut season. She averages a team-best 16.3 points per game, providing a steady offensive threat. Bridget Carleton chipped in 13 points, while reserve Sarah Ashlee Barker contributed 11 rebounds off the bench, showcasing Portland's depth.
The balanced scoring and rebounding effort were key to overcoming a slow start. Leite's ability to create her own shot in the fourth quarter proved decisive, as she scored eight points in the final frame.
- Leite: 20 points, 4 assists, 3 rebounds
- Carleton: 13 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals
- Barker: 11 rebounds, 6 points (off the bench)
Portland's bench outscored Connecticut's reserves 24-15, a margin that underscores the team's depth. Strong contributions from role players will be essential as the season progresses.
Injury Concerns Ahead of Friday Night's Game Against Atlanta Dream
Injuries could impact the Fire's lineup for the Friday matchup against the Atlanta Dream at Moda Center. Bridget Carleton (back) and Sarah Ashlee Barker (foot) are listed as game-time decisions. Both players have been integral to Portland's recent success.
The Dream enter the game at 4-2, led by Allisha Gray's 21.7 points per game. They are coming off a 96-81 loss to Minnesota, but have not lost consecutive games this season. The Fire will need a full roster to compete with Atlanta's offensive firepower.
The game tips off at 10:00 PM ET and will be broadcast on ION. Streaming options include Fubo, which offers a free trial, and services like Apple TV continue to expand their sports coverage. The broader shift toward streaming is reshaping how fans access live sports, as discussed in the latest analysis of TV licensing in the streaming era.
Carleton and Barker's status will be confirmed closer to tip-off. Their absence would test Portland's depth against a strong Atlanta squad.
Portland's ability to adapt to lineup changes will be tested. If either player sits, the Fire will rely on their bench for extended minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Portland Fire is 5-3 and riding a three-game winning streak after a comeback victory over Connecticut.
- Carle Leite's 20-point performance was pivotal in the win, solidifying her role as the team's leading scorer.
- Sarah Ashlee Barker's 11 rebounds highlight the bench's contribution and depth.
- Injuries to Bridget Carleton (back) and Sarah Ashlee Barker (foot) could affect lineup decisions for Friday's game against Atlanta.
- The Fire host the Atlanta Dream at the Moda Center on Friday, May 29, at 10:00 PM ET, broadcast on ION and streamed on Fubo.